How to form a corporation in Virginia
Starting a corporation in Virginia is a manageable process when broken down into clear steps. Below is an overview of what’s involved when you start a corporation in Virginia.
1. Choose your corporation type
Virginia allows several types of corporations, including C corporations and S corporations. The right option depends on how you plan to structure ownership, taxation, and management.
2. Decide on a company name
Once you’ve selected your corporation type, you’ll need to choose a business name. The name must be distinguishable from other entities registered in the state. Many business owners complete a Virginia corporation search or Virginia corporation lookup to confirm name availability before filing. Corporate Creations can help you with a name search and reservation to secure your chosen business name.
3. Get a registered agent
Every Virginia corporation must appoint a registered agent. This individual or business entity is responsible for accepting legal notices and official correspondence on behalf of your corporation and must maintain a physical address in Virginia.
4. Choose an incorporator
The Articles of Incorporation must identify an incorporator. This person or entity is responsible for signing and submitting the filing to the Virginia State Corporation Commission. An incorporator may be an owner, attorney, or authorized third-party provider.
5. Issue shares
Corporations in Virginia must authorize shares of stock as part of formation. You may authorize one or multiple classes of shares, depending on your business goals. If you authorize multiple classes, details about shareholder rights and share structure must be included in your formation documents. We recommend consulting a legal or tax professional when determining share structure to ensure compliance with Virginia laws.
6. File the Articles of Incorporation
The final step is filing the Articles of Incorporation with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Once approved, your corporation is officially formed. Filing can typically be completed online or by mail, depending on your preference. After approval, there are additional setup steps to complete to keep your corporation compliant – check out our comprehensive guide on how to start a corporation to learn more.
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